"It marks a momentous step for thousands of people in need of a life-saving transplant, and could save as many as 700 lives a year.

“With significantly more people willing to consider organ donation than are actually registered as donors, this vital step will presume consent unless people choose to opt out of being a donor.

“It’s important that everyone takes the time to discuss their choices on donation with their families and register their wishes, whatever their preference may be.

“I also want to thank those who have campaigned tirelessly to raise awareness of this issue, and pay particular tribute to Max, Keira and their families for making this historic change happen.”

Speaking after the bill cleared the House of Lords in November, Max, who became the face of our campaign, said: “I am chuffed the law is going through.”

There are currently around 6,000 people on the transplant waiting list in the UK and last year more than 400 patients died while waiting for a suitable organ.

A multi million pound awareness campaign will now encourage families to discuss their wishes should the worst happen.

Fiona Loud, policy director at Kidney Care UK, said: “Today represents an extraordinary opportunity to transform the lives of those waiting for a transplant, as the introduction of Max and Keira’s Law is a landmark moment in organ donation and transplantation.

“The law gives so much hope to the thousands of people waiting for a kidney, as sadly every single day one person still dies in need of a kidney transplant.

“Changing the law doesn’t change the importance of people talking to their families about their organ donation decision.

“We look forward to playing our part in the important next steps that will be required to enable more transplants to take place, more lives to be saved and more dreams to be fulfilled.”